Pelorus Jack: The Story of New Zealand's Famous Dolphin
- Kirsten Edwards
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Author: Tania Atkinson Illustration: Chris Gaskin
Back of book: "More than a hundred years ago, something extraordinary happened in New Zealand's Marlborough Sounds. A strange dolphin, big as a young whale and the colour of moonlight, began regularly escorting the Wellington-Nelson steamers for a portion of their journey. For 25 years, he kept to his task, gaining the love and attention of the whole world and the special protection of the New Zealand Government. Then quite suddenly, in the spring of 1912, he vanished... Who was this Pelorus Jack, and why did he follow the ships so faithfully and for so long? Was he lonely or sick, or was he the legendary taniwha, Tahu-rangi, godfish of the Maori? After studying the newspapers and documents of the time and listening to the accounts of those people who can actually remember seeing the dolphin in action, Tania Atkinson has written this true fairy-tale of the New Zealand coast."
This is Tania Atkinson's second history novel, written in short form. Her first one is Mackenzie and his Dog.
This is the true story of a remarkable dolphin that captured worldwide attention in the early 1900s by guiding steam ships safely through the tricky waters of Queen Charlotte Sound to the French Pass.
Tania Atkinson tells it in a well-written, very informative way. There are loads of great details about Cook Strait crossings at the time (a three-day round trip from Wellington to Picton and then on to Nelson), steam ships, different types of dolphins, and what everyday life was like in New Zealand just before World War I. The book also covers how Pelorus Jack became protected by law.
It’s a very informative and enjoyable read all round. At just 48 pages, it’s a nice short book, and it’s fully illustrated with charming black and white illustrations by Chris Gaskin.
A great read for ages 8 and up, especially if you’re interested in New Zealand history or sealife. Highly recommended.
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